MITSUBISHI LANCER

Compared to its rivals, this little turbo pocket rocket stands up very well for its all-round performance.

MITSUBISHI LANCER

25 March 2015Michael Seneviratne

Owned since new?

No

Owned for how long?

1 year(s)

Buy this make again?

Yes

Price and equipment10.0/10

At the time of its Australian release in late 1992, the GSR was priced at around $ 29K - it's discontinuation from this market in mid-1996 saw the price at just over $ 36K. I picked up this 1995 example in mid-2006 for around $14K – with only 80,000 km on the clock. Other cars I'd been considering included a Mazda Familia GT-X, Ford Laser TX3 Turbo 4WD, and even the Mitsubishi Galant VR-4.The GSR was the highest spec Lancer available in Australia during its four year reign. Standard GSR items include a bodykit with a boot-mounted rear spoiler, fourteen inch alloy wheels, air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, power steering, central locking, four-speaker radio cassette, and ABS. My GSR is also fitted with cruise control. Most GSRs you find in the classifieds these days will average $11-12k – take note most have been modified. They give great performance for the money and although not the fastest ‘90s turbo 4WD car, provide a thoroughly enjoyable driving experience.

Under the bonnet10.0/10

Packed under the bonnet is a turbocharged and intercooled 4G93 1.8 litre in-line four cylinder engine. Producing 145 kW of power and 255 Nm of torque, the little 1.8 litre is a keen revver. The turbo is quick to spool up quickly giving spectacular mid-range performance, particularly between 2,000-4,000 rpm. Although not the quietest engine around, the engine provides plenty of useable power around town, and with its mid-range torque, results in excellent driveability in the city. Get it out on the open road and the GSR is also a very willing performer. I haven't taken the liberty to add a few modifications as yet – but watch this space!

How it drives10.0/10

The GSR provides an excellent combination of straightline performance and handling in a four-door sedan. The little Lancer will run 0-100 km/h times in around 7.5 seconds, and burn up the quarter mile in just over 15 seconds. The car certainly feels that quick too! The gearbox is a pleasure to use, but can be fairly notchy at times, whilst the clutch feels quite heavy as well. Australian-spec GSRs came with a standard 5-speed manual transmission, although a 4-speed auto was also available in Japan. Handling is also a major upside of this car. Winding roads, sharp turn-ins and even roundabouts – the GSR handles such situations with relative ease. The four-wheel drive also works brilliantly in the wet with wheelspin almost absent.

Comfort and practicality10.0/10

Wrapped in a four-door body, the GSR is a very practical car. With seating for five adults, folding rear seats and a good amount of boot space, the Lancer proves itself useful in a variety of situations. And of course, the boosted 1.8 litre engine has no trouble shifting five adults and a bootful of luggage.There's also standard cloth trim, with comfortable seating all round and standard air conditioning adds to the comfort factor of the GSR.

Servicing and running costs10.0/10

Running costs are quite good for this car. Regular servicing and maintenance is required to keep the turbo 4WD Lancer running at its peak. This includes oil changes every 5,000 km or 6 months.Fuel consumption isn't too bad either. On average, 12 litres for every 100 km is expected around the city, but drive it hard and the GSR gets even more thirstier.

Aesthetics and styling10.0/10

The GSR could only be described as a sleeper. Sporting fourteen inch alloy wheels, a subtle bodykit and rear spoiler, the Lancer doesn't make its performing capabilities obvious to other motorists. Personally, I like the style of the GSR – it has a clean, inoffensive look about it whilst still remaining practical. And you can rest assured it doesn't attract as much unwanted attention as some of its rivals!

Safety and security8.0/10

The GSR's all-wheel drive system provides a tremendous amount of grip. It definitely gives the car a handling edge, as well as security in dangerous and challenging situations. Surprisingly absent are airbags - although there is ABS fitted as standard. No immobiliser or alarm appears to have been fitted by the factory, which is surprising given the performance of this car. However, I do have an alarm/immobiliser installed as an aftermarket addition.

Quality and reliability10.0/10

The Lancer has excellent build quality, which shines through in both exterior and interior.After 12 years of use and abuse however, you can expect a few rattles and creaks to surface. Mine has one or two minor dashboard rattles and a few plastic interior items need to be either replaced or repaired.Still the GSR has proven to be one very reliable vehicle, and a high quality one at that.

Overall verdict10.0/10

The CC Lancer GSR provides a terrific blend of performance and practicality. I have to say it's been an absolute ball of fun to own. Compared to its rivals, this little turbo pocket rocket stands up very well for its all-round performance. And of course, there's potential for more power and performance through endless aftermarket items. Although not in the same power league as a Pulsar GTi-R, Subaru STi or Lancer Evolution, the GSR makes for a great example of an all-wheel drive turbo car at a very reasonable used-car price. I'll be keeping this car for quite a while - it's endless fun!